Irsta is a locality at the outskirt of Västerås in the province of Västmanland. It has a long history as a church village before large housing developments began in the 20th century. It is today home to around 2800 inhabitants.
A Short History of Irsta
Irsta was originally the center of the local parish. Irsta Parish dates back to the Middle Ages and its church opened its doors in the 13th century. In 1952, the parish was merged with Kungsåra and in 1967 it became a part of the city of Västerås.
The development of the current urban area is the result of the expansion of the company ABB and the need for new housing developments. In 1988, the merger between Swedish Asea and Swiss Brown Boveri led to the foundation of ABB. Asea was founded in Stockholm in 1883 and the company began its operations in Västerås in the 1890s. As a result, yhe surrounding localities, such as Irsta, have grown as residential areas and suburbs for the growing need of the industries of Västerås.
Things to Do and See
With nature and the countryside around the corner, Irsta has a lot to offer for anyone looking to get away from the large cities but still wishes to have them close by. Västerås is within easy access for anyone looking for city life.
Irsta Church
The 13th-century church is the most prominent and historical building in the locality. It has over the centuries seen several renovations and moficiations. In fact, the large spire is from as late as the 18th century. The most recent renovation of the church took place in 1905.
Irsta Floodlit Trail
Next to the school and sports fields is a 2.5 kilometer-long illuminated trail for running and walking. The area is within reach of most parts of the locality.
How to Get to Irsta
- Flights: The closest airport is Stockholm Västerås Airport (VST), 6 kilometers away, which has mostly low-cost carriers. In addition, there is Stockholm-Arlanda Airport (ARN), 102 kilometers away with both domestic and international flights.
- Car: Irsta is along the E18 a little bit east of Västerås.
- Bus: Local and regional buses from VL connect Irsta with the surrounding region.
- Train: The closest train station is in Västerås.
The driving distance from 5 major Swedish cities, according to Google Maps:
- Stockholm – 103 kilometers (1 h 9 min)
- Gothenburg – 397 kilometers (4 h 35 min)
- Malmö – 610 kilometers (6 h 16 min)
- Linköping – 197 kilometers (2 h 25 min)
- Kiruna – 1240 kilometers (13 h 42 min)
Find out more about other destinations in Sweden by visiting our page Exploring Sweden
